Uf graphic Design Program computer and software recommendations

COMPUTER and SOFTWARE RECOMMENDATIONS

The graphic design faculty members continue to strongly recommend Macintosh systems over Microsoft Windows-based personal computers for students entering the computer-integrated studio. Apple understands that designers require the highest fidelity in their equipment (things like user-friendliness, color quality and graphical speed). They remain the recommended system for professionals in the creative arts. The Apple Macintosh remains the dominant computer in the print design, publishing, and multimedia design industries.

Although the PC and Mac are quite comparable in both software, hardware, power and price, a PC user may find it more difficult to integrate with the network and printers available in our Macintosh-oriented "computer-integrated" classroom and our technical staff (as well as fellow students) will be less able to easily assist or support the PC environment.

About 50% of our current UF graphic design students use desktop computers (for their expandability and power) and the other 50% rely on notebook computers (for their portability).

Over the past several months all of the Apple's computers have been undergoing an important transition to be based on a processor chip by Intel. This allows you to run not only Apple's OSX but also Microsoft Windows XP (purchased separately). http://www.apple.com/getamac/

Apple Education Store

Direct link to Apple Store for UF

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Any of these systems should be minimally adequate for average daily uses. But because we work on complex and large projects in graphic design, you should try to purchase the most affordable, powerful system. If you are interested in video or multimedia you should certainly look to the high-end systems rather than the low-end.

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Software

Over the two-years of the program we will use the following set of software: Adobe Photoshop, Indesign, Illustrator, Acrobat Professional, Micromedia Dreamweaver and Flash. Be sure to purchase software from an academic reseller for discount rates. You will likely have to fax or email proof that you are a current student to qualify.

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Designers will never have too many typefaces. Here is a "classics" package ($99) from Adobe to supplement those that already come with your computer system.

 

Students often find that a digital camera can be a very useful part of their creative process. Look for one with more than five megapixels of resolution. Some online retailers...